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Esen O, Bailey SJ, Stashuk DW, Howatson G, Goodall S. Influence of nitrate supplementation on motor unit activity during recovery following a sustained ischemic contraction in recreationally active young males. Eur J Nutr 2024; 63:2379-2387. [PMID: 38809323 PMCID: PMC11377467 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-024-03440-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Dietary nitrate (NO3-) supplementation enhances muscle blood flow and metabolic efficiency in hypoxia, however, its efficacy on neuromuscular function and specifically, the effect on motor unit (MU) activity is less clear. We investigated whether NO3- supplementation affected MU activity following a 3 min sustained ischemic contraction and whether this is influenced by blood flow restriction (BFR) during the recovery period. METHOD In a randomized, double-blinded, cross-over design, 14 males (mean ± SD, 25 ± 6 years) completed two trials following 5 days of supplementation with NO3--rich (NIT) or NO3--depleted (PLA) beetroot juice to modify plasma nitrite (NO2-) concentration (482 ± 92 vs. 198 ± 48 nmol·L-1, p < 0.001). Intramuscular electromyography was used to assess MU potential (MUP) size (duration and area) and mean firing rates (MUFR) during a 3 min submaximal (25% MVC) isometric contraction with BFR. These variables were also assessed during a 90 s recovery period with the first half completed with, and the second half completed without, BFR. RESULTS The change in MUP area and MUFR, did not differ between conditions (all p > 0.05), but NIT elicited a reduction in MUP recovery time during brief isometric contractions (p < 0.001), and during recoveries with (p = 0.002) and without (p = 0.012) BFR. CONCLUSION These novel observations improve understanding of the effects of NO3- on the recovery of neuromuscular function post-exercise and might have implications for recovery of muscle contractile function. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov with ID of NCT05993715 on August 08, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozcan Esen
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK.
- Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK.
| | - Stephen J Bailey
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Daniel W Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Glyn Howatson
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK
- Water Research Group, North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Stuart Goodall
- Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 8ST, UK
- Physical Activity, Sport and Recreation Research Focus Area, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Pabla P, Jones E, Piasecki M, Phillips B. Skeletal muscle dysfunction with advancing age. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:863-882. [PMID: 38994723 PMCID: PMC11250095 DOI: 10.1042/cs20231197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
As a result of advances in medical treatments and associated policy over the last century, life expectancy has risen substantially and continues to increase globally. However, the disconnect between lifespan and 'health span' (the length of time spent in a healthy, disease-free state) has also increased, with skeletal muscle being a substantial contributor to this. Biological ageing is accompanied by declines in both skeletal muscle mass and function, termed sarcopenia. The mechanisms underpinning sarcopenia are multifactorial and are known to include marked alterations in muscle protein turnover and adaptations to the neural input to muscle. However, to date, the relative contribution of each factor remains largely unexplored. Specifically, muscle protein synthetic responses to key anabolic stimuli are blunted with advancing age, whilst alterations to neural components, spanning from the motor cortex and motoneuron excitability to the neuromuscular junction, may explain the greater magnitude of function losses when compared with mass. The consequences of these losses can be devastating for individuals, their support networks, and healthcare services; with clear detrimental impacts on both clinical (e.g., mortality, frailty, and post-treatment complications) and societal (e.g., independence maintenance) outcomes. Whether declines in muscle quantity and quality are an inevitable component of ageing remains to be completely understood. Nevertheless, strategies to mitigate these declines are of vital importance to improve the health span of older adults. This review aims to provide an overview of the declines in skeletal muscle mass and function with advancing age, describes the wide-ranging implications of these declines, and finally suggests strategies to mitigate them, including the merits of emerging pharmaceutical agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pardeep Pabla
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, DE22 3DT, U.K
| | - Eleanor J. Jones
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, DE22 3DT, U.K
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, DE22 3DT, U.K
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR), U.K
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), U.K
| | - Bethan E. Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital, Derby, DE22 3DT, U.K
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research (CMAR), U.K
- NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC), U.K
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Guo Y, Jones EJ, Škarabot J, Inns TB, Phillips BE, Atherton PJ, Piasecki M. Common synaptic inputs and persistent inward currents of vastus lateralis motor units are reduced in older male adults. GeroScience 2024; 46:3249-3261. [PMID: 38238546 PMCID: PMC11009172 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-024-01063-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Although muscle atrophy may partially account for age-related strength decline, it is further influenced by alterations of neural input to muscle. Persistent inward currents (PIC) and the level of common synaptic inputs to motoneurons influence neuromuscular function. However, these have not yet been described in the aged human quadriceps. High-density surface electromyography (HDsEMG) signals were collected from the vastus lateralis of 15 young (mean ± SD, 23 ± 5 y) and 15 older (67 ± 9 y) men during submaximal sustained and 20-s ramped contractions. HDsEMG signals were decomposed to identify individual motor unit discharges, from which PIC amplitude and intramuscular coherence were estimated. Older participants produced significantly lower knee extensor torque (p < 0.001) and poorer force tracking ability (p < 0.001) than young. Older participants also had lower PIC amplitude (p = 0.001) and coherence estimates in the alpha frequency band (p < 0.001) during ramp contractions when compared to young. Persistent inward currents and common synaptic inputs are lower in the vastus lateralis of older males when compared to young. These data highlight altered neural input to the clinically and functionally important quadriceps, further underpinning age-related loss of function which may occur independently of the loss of muscle mass.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiao Guo
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research &, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre (Room 3011), Derby, DE22 3DT, UK
| | - Eleanor J Jones
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research &, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre (Room 3011), Derby, DE22 3DT, UK
| | - Jakob Škarabot
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Loughborough, UK
| | - Thomas B Inns
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research &, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre (Room 3011), Derby, DE22 3DT, UK
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research &, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre (Room 3011), Derby, DE22 3DT, UK
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research &, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre (Room 3011), Derby, DE22 3DT, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research &, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre (Room 3011), Derby, DE22 3DT, UK.
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Messa GAM, Korhonen MT, Degens H. No ageing-related increase in fibre type grouping in sprint-trained masters runners: A 10-year follow-up study. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2024; 15:552-561. [PMID: 38228574 PMCID: PMC10995270 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.13416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research suggests that an ageing-associated remodelling and loss of motor units due to motor neuron death contributes significantly to muscle weakness in old age. In histological sections, motor unit remodelling is reflected by increased fibre type grouping. While regular exercise may not attenuate the loss of motor units during ageing, it has been suggested to facilitate reinnervation resulting in larger motor units, and a higher number and larger fibre type groups in histological sections of muscles from aged individuals. METHODS In a 10-year follow-up study, we assessed changes in the prevalence and size of fibre type groups in the vastus lateralis muscle from 34 male masters sprinters (40-85 years at start). RESULTS Over the 10 years, there was an ageing-related reduction in performance in the 60-m sprint (P < 0.001) without significant changes in fibre type composition and fibre cross-sectional area. Neither the number of fibre type groups, defined as a fibre surrounded exclusively by fibres of the same type, nor the group size changed significantly in the 10-year period. CONCLUSIONS These histological data show that there is limited to no significant fibre type grouping over a 10-year period in masters athletes who continued sprint run training. This observation challenges the paradigm that ageing, at least in systematically trained sprinters, is associated with motor unit remodelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy Anselme Mpaka Messa
- Higher Institute of Medical TechnologyISTM‐KinshasaKinshasaDemocratic Republic of Congo
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity Kasa‐Vubu (UKV)BomaDemocratic Republic of Congo
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity de Bandundu (UNIBAND)BandunduDemocratic Republic of Congo
| | - Marko T. Korhonen
- Gerontology Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health SciencesUniversity of JyväskyläJyväskyläFinland
| | - Hans Degens
- Department of Life Sciences, Institute of SportManchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
- Institute of Sport Science and InnovationsLithuanian Sports UniversityKaunasLithuania
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Tøien T, Nielsen JL, Berg OK, Brobakken MF, Nyberg SK, Espedal L, Malmo T, Frandsen U, Aagaard P, Wang E. The impact of life-long strength versus endurance training on muscle fiber morphology and phenotype composition in older men. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2023; 135:1360-1371. [PMID: 37881849 PMCID: PMC10979801 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00208.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Aging is typically associated with decreased muscle strength and rate of force development (RFD), partly explained by motor unit remodeling due to denervation, and subsequent loss of fast-twitch type II myofibers. Exercise is commonly advocated to counteract this detrimental loss. However, it is unclear how life-long strength versus endurance training may differentially affect markers of denervation and reinnervation of skeletal myofibers and, in turn, affect the proportion and morphology of fast-twitch type II musculature. Thus, we compared fiber type distribution, fiber type grouping, and the prevalence of atrophic myofibers (≤1,494 µm2) in strength-trained (OS) versus endurance-trained (OE) master athletes and compared the results to recreationally active older adults (all >70 yr, OC) and young habitually active references (<30 yr, YC). Immunofluorescent stainings were performed on biopsy samples from vastus lateralis, along with leg press maximal strength and RFD measurements. OS demonstrated similar type II fiber distribution (OS: 52.0 ± 16.4%; YC: 51.1 ± 14.4%), fiber type grouping, maximal strength (OS: 170.0 ± 18.9 kg, YC: 151.0 ± 24.4 kg), and RFD (OS: 3,993 ± 894 N·s-1, YC: 3,470 ± 1,394 N·s-1) as young, and absence of atrophic myofibers (OS: 0.2 ± 0.7%; YC: 0.1 ± 0.4%). In contrast, OE and OC exhibited more atrophic fibers (OE: 1.2 ± 1.0%; OC: 1.1 ± 1.4%), more grouped fibers, and smaller proportion of type II fibers (OE: 39.3 ± 11.9%; OC: 35.0 ± 12.4%) than OS and YC (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, strength-trained master athletes were characterized by similar muscle morphology as young, which was not the case for recreationally active or endurance-trained old. These results indicate that strength training may preserve type II fibers with advancing age in older men, likely as a result of chronic use of high contractile force generation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Aging is associated with loss of fast-twitch type II myofibers, motor unit remodeling, and grouping of myofibers. This study reveals, for the first time, that strength training preserves neural innervation of type II fibers, resulting in similar myofiber type distribution and grouping in life-long strength-trained master athletes as young moderately active adults. In contrast, life-long endurance-trained master athletes and recreationally active old adults demonstrated higher proportion of type I fibers accompanied by more marked grouping of type I myofibers, and more atrophic fibers compared with strength-trained master athletes and young individuals. Thus, strength training should be utilized as a training modality for preservation of fast-twitch musculature, maximal muscle strength, and rapid force capacity (RFD) with advancing age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiril Tøien
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
| | - Jakob Lindberg Nielsen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Research Unit for Muscle Physiology and Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Ole Kristian Berg
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
| | - Mathias Forsberg Brobakken
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
- Department of Psychosis and Rehabilitation, Psychiatry Clinic, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Stian Kwak Nyberg
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
| | - Lars Espedal
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
| | - Thomas Malmo
- Norwegian Defence University College, Norwegian Armed Forces, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ulrik Frandsen
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Research Unit for Muscle Physiology and Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Per Aagaard
- Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, Research Unit for Muscle Physiology and Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Eivind Wang
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, Molde University College, Molde, Norway
- Department of Psychosis and Rehabilitation, Psychiatry Clinic, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Robinson R, Crank H, Humphreys H, Fisher P, Greenfield DM. Time to embed physical activity within usual care in cancer services: A qualitative study of cancer healthcare professionals' views at a single centre in England. Disabil Rehabil 2023; 45:3484-3492. [PMID: 36369938 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2022.2134468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE An increasing number of people affected by cancer (PABC) are living longer lives as treatment continues to advance. There is growing evidence for physical activity (PA) supporting health in this population before, during and after cancer treatment, but PA advice is not part of usual care. This study investigates views of frontline oncology healthcare professionals (HCPs) in one NHS teaching hospital in England to understand the role of PA advice across cancer services. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a qualitative study interviewing HCPs and using thematic analysis. RESULTS Four main themes were identified: 1. Awareness of the roles of PA in cancer; 2. Patient-specific factors in rehabilitation; 3. Cancer-specific factors in rehabilitation; 4. Barriers and opportunities to integrating PA within usual care. HCPs' awareness of the role of PA in cancer rehabilitation was low overall and PA was found not to be embedded within rehabilitation. Contrastingly, there was awareness of PA's potential to impact disease and treatment-related outcomes positively. Ideas for PA integration included training for staff and giving PA advice within consultations. CONCLUSIONS Low awareness of benefits of PA-based rehabilitation and lack of integration in usual care contrasted with HCPs' interest in this area's potential. Training HCPs to begin the conversation with patients affected by cancer in teachable moments may increase patient access.Implications for rehabilitationIntegrating physical activity education and training for trainees and existing healthcare professionals workforce would help embed physical activity into routine clinical practice.Brief advice intervention training during every consultation, such as providing relevant individualised information and signposting, can be impactful.Physical activity within a broader cancer rehabilitation programme should be integrated as standard for every cancer patient.Individualised plans may include prehabilitation, restorative rehabilitation and palliative rehabilitation.Patient preferences and the patient experience should continue to shape service design.There is a need to ensure physical activity advice is consistent throughout healthcare settings and not fragmented between primary, secondary and tertiary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Robinson
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| | - Helen Crank
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Science, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Helen Humphreys
- Centre for Sport and Exercise Science, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Patricia Fisher
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
- South Yorkshire ICB Cancer Alliance, Sheffield, UK
| | - Diana M Greenfield
- Weston Park Cancer Centre, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Jones EJ, Guo Y, Martinez‐Valdes E, Negro F, Stashuk DW, Atherton PJ, Phillips BE, Piasecki M. Acute adaptation of central and peripheral motor unit features to exercise-induced fatigue differs with concentric and eccentric loading. Exp Physiol 2023; 108:827-837. [PMID: 37018481 PMCID: PMC10988466 DOI: 10.1113/ep091058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Conflicting evidence exists on motor unit (MU) firing rate in response to exercise-induced fatigue, possibly due to the contraction modality used: Do MU properties adapt similarly following concentric and eccentric loading? What is the main finding and its importance? MU firing rate increased following eccentric loading only despite a decline in absolute force. Force steadiness deteriorated following both loading methods. Central and peripheral MU features are altered in a contraction type-dependant manner, which is an important consideration for training interventions. ABSTRACT Force output of muscle is partly mediated by the adjustment of motor unit (MU) firing rate (FR). Disparities in MU features in response to fatigue may be influenced by contraction type, as concentric (CON) and eccentric (ECC) contractions demand variable amounts of neural input, which alters the response to fatigue. This study aimed to determine the effects of fatigue following CON and ECC loading on MU features of the vastus lateralis (VL). High-density surface (HD-sEMG) and intramuscular (iEMG) electromyography were used to record MU potentials (MUPs) from bilateral VLs of 12 young volunteers (six females) during sustained isometric contractions at 25% and 40% of the maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), before and after completing CON and ECC weighted stepping exercise. Multi-level mixed effects linear regression models were performed with significance assumed as P < 0.05. MVC decreased in both CON and ECC legs post-exercise (P < 0.0001), as did force steadiness at both 25% and 40% MVC (P < 0.004). MU FR increased in ECC at both contraction levels (P < 0.001) but did not change in CON. FR variability increased in both legs at 25% and 40% MVC following fatigue (P < 0.01). From iEMG measures at 25% MVC, MUP shape did not change (P > 0.1) but neuromuscular junction transmission instability increased in both legs (P < 0.04), and markers of fibre membrane excitability increased following CON only (P = 0.018). These data demonstrate that central and peripheral MU features are altered following exercise-induced fatigue and differ according to exercise modality. This is important when considering interventional strategies targeting MU function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor J. Jones
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Yuxiao Guo
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Eduardo Martinez‐Valdes
- Centre of Precision Rehabilitation for Spinal Pain (CPR Spine), School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, College of Life and Environmental SciencesUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Francesco Negro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental SciencesUniversità degli Studi di BresciaBresciaItaly
| | - Daniel W. Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design EngineeringUniversity of WaterlooWaterlooOntarioCanada
| | - Philip J. Atherton
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Bethan E. Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
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Qiu F, Liu X, Xu Y, Shi L, Sheng X, Chen C. Neural inputs from spinal motor neurons to lateralis vastus muscle: Comparison between sprinters and nonathletes. Front Physiol 2022; 13:994857. [PMID: 36277210 PMCID: PMC9585313 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.994857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The adaptation of neural contractile properties has been observed in previous work. However, the neural changes on the motor unit (MU) level remain largely unknown. Voluntary movements are controlled through the precise activation of MU populations. In this work, we estimate the neural inputs from the spinal motor neurons to the muscles during isometric contractions and characterize the neural adaptation during training by comparing the MU properties decomposed from sprinters and nonathletes. Twenty subjects were recruited and divided into two groups. The high-density surface electromyography (EMG) signals were recorded from the lateralis vastus muscle during the isometric contraction of knee extension and were then decomposed into MU spike trains. Each MU’s action potentials and discharge properties were extracted for comparison across subject groups and tasks. A total of 1097 MUs were identified from all subjects. Results showed that the discharge rates and amplitudes of MUAPs from athletes were significantly higher than those from nonathletes. These results demonstrate the neural adaptations in physical training at the MU population level and indicate the great potential of EMG decomposition in physiological investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Qiu
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodong Liu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Yilin Xu
- Sports Biomechanics Laboratory, Jiangsu Research Institute of Sports Science, Nanjing, China
| | - Lijun Shi
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinjun Sheng
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Chen Chen,
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Chen C, Ma S, Yu Y, Sheng X, Zhu X. Segment-Wise Decomposition of Surface Electromyography to Identify Discharges Across Motor Neuron Populations. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2022; 30:2012-2021. [PMID: 35853067 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2022.3192272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The surface electromyography (EMG) decomposition techniques have shown promising results in neurophysiologic investigations, clinical diagnosis, and human-machine interfacing. However, current decomposition methods could only decode a limited number of motor units (MUs) because of the local convergence. The number of identified MUs remains similar even though more muscles or movements are involved, where multiple motor neuron populations are activated. The objective of this study was to develop a segment-wise decomposition strategy to increase the number of MU decoded from multiple motor neuron populations. METHODS The EMG signals were divided into several segments depending on the number of involved movements. The motor neurons, activated during each movement, were regarded as a population. The convolution kernel compensation (CKC) method was applied individually for each segment to decode the motor unit discharges from each motor neuron population. The MU filters were obtained in each segment and filtrated to estimate the MU spike trains (MUSTs) from the global EMG signals. The decomposition performance was validated on synthetic and experimental EMG signals. MAIN RESULTS From synthetic EMG signals generated by two motor neuron populations, the proposed segment-wise CKC (swCKC) decoded significantly more MUs during low and medium excitation levels, with an increased rate of 16.3% to 75.4% compared with the conventional CKC. From experimental signals recorded during ten motor tasks, 133±24 MUs with the pulse-to-noise ratio of 36.6±6.5 dB were identified for each subject by swCKC, whereas the conventional CKC identified only 43±12 MUs. CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE These results indicate the feasibility and superiority of the proposed swCKC to decode MU activities across motor neuron populations, extending the potential applications of EMG decomposition for neural decoding during multiple motor tasks.
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Guo Y, Piasecki J, Swiecicka A, Ireland A, Phillips BE, Atherton PJ, Stashuk D, Rutter MK, McPhee JS, Piasecki M. Circulating testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone are associated with individual motor unit features in untrained and highly active older men. GeroScience 2022; 44:1215-1228. [PMID: 34862585 PMCID: PMC9213614 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00482-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term exercise training has been considered as an effective strategy to counteract age-related hormonal declines and minimise muscle atrophy. However, human data relating circulating hormone levels with motor nerve function are scant. The aims of the study were to explore associations between circulating sex hormone levels and motor unit (MU) characteristics in older men, including masters athletes competing in endurance and power events. Forty-three older men (mean ± SD age: 69.9 ± 4.6 years) were studied based on competitive status. The serum concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), total testosterone (T) and estradiol were quantified using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Intramuscular electromyographic signals were recorded from vastus lateralis (VL) during 25% of maximum voluntary isometric contractions and processed to extract MU firing rate (FR), and motor unit potential (MUP) features. After adjusting for athletic status, MU FR was positively associated with DHEA levels (p = 0.019). Higher testosterone and estradiol were associated with lower MUP complexity; these relationships remained significant after adjusting for athletic status (p = 0.006 and p = 0.019, respectively). Circulating DHEA was positively associated with MU firing rate in these older men. Higher testosterone levels were associated with reduced MUP complexity, indicating reduced electrophysiological temporal dispersion, which is related to decreased differences in conduction times along axonal branches and/or MU fibres. Although evident in males only, this work highlights the potential of hormone administration as a therapeutic interventional strategy specifically targeting human motor units in older age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiao Guo
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and NIHR Nottingham BRC, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Agnieszka Swiecicka
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Alex Ireland
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Bethan E. Phillips
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and NIHR Nottingham BRC, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Philip J. Atherton
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and NIHR Nottingham BRC, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON Canada
| | - Martin K. Rutter
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Jamie S. McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and NIHR Nottingham BRC, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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11
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Guo Y, Jones EJ, Inns TB, Ely IA, Stashuk DW, Wilkinson DJ, Smith K, Piasecki J, Phillips BE, Atherton PJ, Piasecki M. Neuromuscular recruitment strategies of the vastus lateralis according to sex. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2022; 235:e13803. [PMID: 35184382 PMCID: PMC9286427 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM Despite males typically exhibiting greater muscle strength and fatigability than females, it remains unclear if there are sex-based differences in neuromuscular recruitment strategies e.g. recruitment and modulation of motor unit firing rate (MU FR) at normalized forces and during progressive increases in force. METHODS The study includes 29 healthy male and 31 healthy female participants (18-35 years). Intramuscular electromyography (iEMG) was used to record individual motor unit potentials (MUPs) and near-fibre MUPs from the vastus lateralis (VL) during 10% and 25% maximum isometric voluntary contractions (MVC), and spike-triggered averaging was used to obtain motor unit number estimates (MUNE) of the VL. RESULTS Males exhibited greater muscle strength (P < .001) and size (P < .001) than females, with no difference in force steadiness at 10% or 25% MVC. Females had 8.4% and 6.5% higher FR at 10% and 25% MVC, respectively (both P < .03), while the MUP area was 33% smaller in females at 10% MVC (P < .02) and 26% smaller at 25% MVC (P = .062). However, both sexes showed similar increases in MU size and FR when moving from low- to mid-level contractions. There were no sex differences in any near-fibre MUP parameters or in MUNE. CONCLUSION In the vastus lateralis, females produce muscle force via different neuromuscular recruitment strategies to males which is characterized by smaller MUs discharging at higher rates. However, similar strategies are employed to increase force production from low- to mid-level contractions. These findings of similar proportional increases between sexes support the use of mixed sex cohorts in studies of this nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiao Guo
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Eleanor J. Jones
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Thomas B. Inns
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Isabel A. Ely
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Daniel W. Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering University of Waterloo Waterloo Ontario Canada
| | - Daniel J. Wilkinson
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Kenneth Smith
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre Nottingham Trent University Nottingham UK
| | - Bethan E. Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Philip J. Atherton
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism Ageing & Physiology (COMAP) MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre School of Medicine University of Nottingham Derby UK
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12
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Jones EJ, Chiou S, Atherton PJ, Phillips BE, Piasecki M. Ageing and exercise-induced motor unit remodelling. J Physiol 2022; 600:1839-1849. [PMID: 35278221 PMCID: PMC9314090 DOI: 10.1113/jp281726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
A motor unit (MU) comprises the neuron cell body, its corresponding axon and each of the muscle fibres it innervates. Many studies highlight age-related reductions in the number of MUs, yet the ability of a MU to undergo remodelling and to expand to rescue denervated muscle fibres is also a defining feature of MU plasticity. Remodelling of MUs involves two coordinated processes: (i) axonal sprouting and new branching growth from adjacent surviving neurons, and (ii) the formation of key structures around the neuromuscular junction to resume muscle-nerve communication. These processes rely on neurotrophins and coordinated signalling in muscle-nerve interactions. To date, several neurotrophins have attracted focus in animal models, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor and insulin-like growth factors I and II. Exercise in older age has demonstrated benefits in multiple physiological systems including skeletal muscle, yet evidence suggests this may also extend to peripheral MU remodelling. There is, however, a lack of research in humans due to methodological limitations which are easily surmountable in animal models. To improve mechanistic insight of the effects of exercise on MU remodelling with advancing age, future research should focus on combining methodological approaches to explore the in vivo physiological function of the MU alongside alterations of the localised molecular environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor J. Jones
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC–Versus Arthritis Centre of Excellence for Musculoskeletal Ageing ResearchNottingham NIHR Biomedical Research CentreSchool of MedicineUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Shin‐Yi Chiou
- School of SportExercise, and Rehabilitation Sciences, MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, Centre for Human Brain HealthUniversity of BirminghamBirminghamUK
| | - Philip J. Atherton
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC–Versus Arthritis Centre of Excellence for Musculoskeletal Ageing ResearchNottingham NIHR Biomedical Research CentreSchool of MedicineUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Bethan E. Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC–Versus Arthritis Centre of Excellence for Musculoskeletal Ageing ResearchNottingham NIHR Biomedical Research CentreSchool of MedicineUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing & Physiology (COMAP), MRC–Versus Arthritis Centre of Excellence for Musculoskeletal Ageing ResearchNottingham NIHR Biomedical Research CentreSchool of MedicineUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamUK
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13
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Pethick J, Piasecki M. Alterations in Muscle Force Control With Aging: Is There a Modulatory Effect of Lifelong Physical Activity? Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:817770. [PMID: 35392594 PMCID: PMC8980913 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.817770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent technological developments have enabled significant advances in our understanding of the ability to voluntarily control muscle force output. The fluctuations inherent to muscle force output can be quantified according to both their magnitude and temporal structure (or "complexity"), with such quantification facilitating comparison of force control between distinct populations. In comparison to young adults, older adults exhibit an increase in the magnitude (i.e., decreased steadiness) and a decrease in the complexity (i.e., decreased adaptability) of force fluctuations, both of which are indicative of a loss of force control. There remain, however, key gaps in knowledge that limit our interpretation of this age-related loss of force control. One such gap relates to the effect of lifelong physical activity on force control. To date, research on aging and force control has largely been conducted on inactive or moderately active older adults. However, high levels of lifelong physical activity, such as that exhibited by Masters athletes, have been shown to have protective effects on the function and morphology of the neuromuscular system. Some of these effects (e.g., on impaired inhibitory transmission in the motor cortex and on motor unit discharge rates) have the potential to attenuate the age-related loss of force control, while others (e.g., greater motor unit remodeling capacity) have the potential to worsen it. We therefore propose that, in order to progress our knowledge of the effects of aging on force control, future studies must consider the potential modulatory effect of lifelong physical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Pethick
- School of Sport, Rehabilitation and Exercise Sciences, University of Essex, Colchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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14
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Lavin KM, Coen PM, Baptista LC, Bell MB, Drummer D, Harper SA, Lixandrão ME, McAdam JS, O’Bryan SM, Ramos S, Roberts LM, Vega RB, Goodpaster BH, Bamman MM, Buford TW. State of Knowledge on Molecular Adaptations to Exercise in Humans: Historical Perspectives and Future Directions. Compr Physiol 2022; 12:3193-3279. [PMID: 35578962 PMCID: PMC9186317 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c200033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
For centuries, regular exercise has been acknowledged as a potent stimulus to promote, maintain, and restore healthy functioning of nearly every physiological system of the human body. With advancing understanding of the complexity of human physiology, continually evolving methodological possibilities, and an increasingly dire public health situation, the study of exercise as a preventative or therapeutic treatment has never been more interdisciplinary, or more impactful. During the early stages of the NIH Common Fund Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) Initiative, the field is well-positioned to build substantially upon the existing understanding of the mechanisms underlying benefits associated with exercise. Thus, we present a comprehensive body of the knowledge detailing the current literature basis surrounding the molecular adaptations to exercise in humans to provide a view of the state of the field at this critical juncture, as well as a resource for scientists bringing external expertise to the field of exercise physiology. In reviewing current literature related to molecular and cellular processes underlying exercise-induced benefits and adaptations, we also draw attention to existing knowledge gaps warranting continued research effort. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:3193-3279, 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaleen M. Lavin
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Center for Human Health, Resilience, and Performance, Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, Pensacola, Florida, USA
| | - Paul M. Coen
- Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes, Advent Health, Orlando, Florida, USA
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Liliana C. Baptista
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Margaret B. Bell
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Devin Drummer
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sara A. Harper
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Manoel E. Lixandrão
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Jeremy S. McAdam
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Samia M. O’Bryan
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Sofhia Ramos
- Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes, Advent Health, Orlando, Florida, USA
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Lisa M. Roberts
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Rick B. Vega
- Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes, Advent Health, Orlando, Florida, USA
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Bret H. Goodpaster
- Translational Research Institute for Metabolism and Diabetes, Advent Health, Orlando, Florida, USA
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Marcas M. Bamman
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Cell, Developmental, and Integrative Biology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Center for Human Health, Resilience, and Performance, Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, Pensacola, Florida, USA
| | - Thomas W. Buford
- Center for Exercise Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology, Geriatrics and Palliative Care, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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15
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Preventing age-related motor unit loss; is exercise the answer? Exp Gerontol 2022; 159:111695. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2022.111695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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16
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Orlando G, Balducci S, Boulton AJM, Degens H, Reeves ND. Neuromuscular dysfunction and exercise training in people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A narrative review. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2022; 183:109183. [PMID: 34929255 DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2021.109183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common condition that is associated with neuromuscular dysfunction and peripheral sensory impairment. These deficits predispose patients to sensory and motor system limitations, foot ulcers and a high risk of falls. Exercise training has been proposed as an effective tool to alleviate neural deficits and improve whole-body function. Here we review the effects of DPN on neuromuscular function, the mechanisms underlying this impairment, and the neural and muscular adaptations to exercise training. Muscle dysfunction is an early hallmark of DPN. Deficits in muscle strength, power, mass and a greater fatigability are particularly severe in the lower extremity muscles. Non-enzymatic glycation of motor proteins, impaired excitation-contraction coupling and loss of motor units have been indicated as the main factors underlying muscular dysfunction. Among the exercise-based solutions, aerobic training improves neural structure and function and ameliorates neuropathic signs and symptoms. Resistance training induces marked improvement of muscle performance and may alleviate neuropathic pain. A combination of aerobic and resistance training (i.e., combined training) restores small sensory nerve damage, reduces symptoms, and improves muscle function. The evidence so far suggests that exercise training is highly beneficial and should be included in the standard care for DPN patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Orlando
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK.
| | | | - Andrew J M Boulton
- Department of Medicine, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester, UK; Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Hans Degens
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK; Lithuanian Sport University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Neil D Reeves
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine, Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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17
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Hendrickse PW, Venckunas T, Platkevicius J, Kairaitis R, Kamandulis S, Snieckus A, Stasiulis A, Vitkiene J, Subocius A, Degens H. Endurance training-induced increase in muscle oxidative capacity without loss of muscle mass in younger and older resistance-trained men. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:3161-3172. [PMID: 34390401 PMCID: PMC8505308 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-021-04768-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
While concurrent training is regularly used in older populations, the inverse relationship between fibre size and oxidative capacity suggests that endurance training in resistance-trained individuals may result in some loss of resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass, which may be more pronounced in older people. We investigated the impact of superimposed endurance training in younger (28.5 ± 4.8 years; n = 8) and older (67.5 ± 5.5 years; n = 7) highly resistance-trained men. Participants underwent a 10-week endurance cycling training programme consisting of five 6-min intervals at 75% max heart rate (HRmax) separated by 4-min intervals at 90% HRmax. The anatomical cross-sectional area (ACSA) of the thigh muscles, as determined with MRI, was 24% smaller in older compared to younger participants (p < 0.001). Although maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) was also lower in the older group (p < 0.001), VO2max per kg body mass did not differ significantly between younger and older participants. Histological analyses of biopsies of the m. vastus lateralis showed that endurance training induced an increase in succinate dehydrogenase activity in both younger and older participants (p ≤ 0.043), and an increase in the number of capillaries around type I fibres (p = 0.017). The superimposed endurance training did not induce a significant decrease in thigh ACSA, fibre cross-sectional area, or knee extensor maximum voluntary isometric force. These observations indicate that adding endurance training to resistance training can lead to positive endurance-related adaptations without negative consequences for muscle size and strength in older and younger resistance-trained people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul William Hendrickse
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Life Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
- Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jolanta Vitkiene
- Clinic of Radiology, Republican Hospital of Kaunas, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Andrejus Subocius
- Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Surgery, Kaunas Clinical Hospital, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Clinic of Surgery, Republican Hospital of Kaunas, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Hans Degens
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Life Science, Manchester Metropolitan University, John Dalton Building, Chester Street, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK.
- Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania.
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18
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Peña-Toledo MA, Luque E, Ruz-Caracuel I, Agüera E, Jimena I, Peña-Amaro J, Tunez I. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Improves Muscle Involvement in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168589. [PMID: 34445295 PMCID: PMC8395284 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is affected in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), which is a model of multiple sclerosis that produces changes including muscle atrophy; histological features of neurogenic involvement, and increased oxidative stress. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on the involvement of rat skeletal muscle and to compare them with those produced by natalizumab (NTZ). EAE was induced by injecting myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) into Dark Agouti rats. Both treatments, NTZ and TMS, were implemented from day 15 to day 35. Clinical severity was studied, and after sacrifice, the soleus and extensor digitorum longus muscles were extracted for subsequent histological and biochemical analysis. The treatment with TMS and NTZ had a beneficial effect on muscle involvement in the EAE model. There was a clinical improvement in functional motor deficits, atrophy was attenuated, neurogenic muscle lesions were reduced, and the level of oxidative stress biomarkers was lower in both treatment groups. Compared to NTZ, the best response was obtained with TMS for all the parameters analyzed. The myoprotective effect of TMS was higher than that of NTZ. Thus, the use of TMS may be an effective strategy to reduce muscle involvement in multiple sclerosis.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cell Count
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/chemically induced
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/pathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/physiopathology
- Encephalomyelitis, Autoimmune, Experimental/therapy
- Male
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/drug effects
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/pathology
- Muscle Fibers, Skeletal/physiology
- Muscle, Skeletal/drug effects
- Muscle, Skeletal/pathology
- Muscle, Skeletal/physiopathology
- Muscular Atrophy/physiopathology
- Muscular Atrophy/prevention & control
- Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein
- Natalizumab/pharmacology
- Rats
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Angeles Peña-Toledo
- Dementia and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Neurology Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research IMIBIC, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Evelio Luque
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research IMIBIC, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Section of Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ruz-Caracuel
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Section of Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Eduardo Agüera
- Dementia and Multiple Sclerosis Unit, Neurology Service, Reina Sofia University Hospital, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research IMIBIC, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Ignacio Jimena
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research IMIBIC, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Section of Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Jose Peña-Amaro
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research IMIBIC, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Section of Histology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
| | - Isaac Tunez
- Maimonides Institute for Biomedical Research IMIBIC, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Cordoba, 14004 Cordoba, Spain
- Cooperative Research Thematic Excellent Network on Brain Stimulation (REDESTIM), Ministery for Economy, Industry and Competitiveness, 28046 Madrid, Spain
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19
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Jones EJ, Piasecki J, Ireland A, Stashuk DW, Atherton PJ, Phillips BE, McPhee JS, Piasecki M. Lifelong exercise is associated with more homogeneous motor unit potential features across deep and superficial areas of vastus lateralis. GeroScience 2021; 43:1555-1565. [PMID: 33763775 PMCID: PMC8492837 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00356-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor unit (MU) expansion enables rescue of denervated muscle fibres helping to ameliorate age-related muscle atrophy, with evidence to suggest master athletes are more successful at this remodelling. Electrophysiological data has suggested MUs located superficially are larger than those located deeper within young muscle. However, the effects of ageing and exercise on MU heterogeneity across deep and superficial aspects of vastus lateralis (VL) remain unclear. Intramuscular electromyography was used to record individual MU potentials (MUPs) and near fibre MUPs (NFMs) from deep and superficial regions of the VL during 25% maximum voluntary contractions, in 83 males (15 young (Y), 17 young athletes (YA), 22 old (O) and 29 master athletes (MA)). MUP size and complexity were assessed using area and number of turns, respectively. Multilevel mixed effects linear regression models were performed to investigate the effects of depth in each group. MUP area was greater in deep compared with superficial MUs in Y (p<0.001) and O (p=0.012) but not in YA (p=0.071) or MA (p=0.653). MUP amplitude and NF MUP area were greater, and MUPs were more complex in deep MUPs from Y, YA and O (all p<0.05) but did not differ across depth in MA (all p>0.07). These data suggest MU characteristics differ according to depth within the VL which may be influenced by both ageing and exercise. A more homogenous distribution of MUP size and complexity across muscle depths in older athletes may be a result of a greater degree of age-related MU adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor J Jones
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Alex Ireland
- Department of Life Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel W Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Jamie S McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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20
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Soendenbroe C, Andersen JL, Mackey AL. Muscle-nerve communication and the molecular assessment of human skeletal muscle denervation with aging. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2021; 321:C317-C329. [PMID: 34161153 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00174.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Muscle fiber denervation is a major contributor to the decline in physical function observed with aging. Denervation can occur through breakdown of the neuromuscular junctions (NMJ) itself, affecting only that particular fiber, or through the death of a motor neuron, which can lead to a loss of all the muscle fibers in that motor unit. In this review, we discuss the muscle-nerve relationship, where signaling from both the motor neuron and the muscle fiber is required for maximal preservation of neuromuscular function in old age. Physical activity is likely to be the most important single factor that can contribute to this preservation. Furthermore, we propose that inactivity is not an innocent bystander, but plays an active role in denervation through the production of signals hostile to neuron survival. Investigating denervation in human muscle tissue samples is challenging due to the shared protein profile of regenerating and denervated muscle fibers. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of the key traits observed in immunohistochemical preparations of muscle biopsies from healthy, young, and elderly individuals. Overall, a combination of assessing tissue samples, circulating biomarkers, and electrophysiological assessments in humans will prove fruitful in the quest to gain more understanding of denervation of skeletal muscle. In addition, cell culture models represent a valuable tool in the search for key signaling factors exchanged between muscle and nerve, and which exercise has the capacity to alter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casper Soendenbroe
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Xlab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper L Andersen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Abigail L Mackey
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Institute of Sports Medicine Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Xlab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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21
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Stagi S, Moroni A, Micheletti Cremasco M, Marini E. Body Composition Symmetry in Long-Term Active Middle-Aged and Older Individuals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18115956. [PMID: 34199340 PMCID: PMC8199499 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze body composition and strength symmetry in a sample of 165 middle-aged and elderly Italian volunteers, which included 97 active (67 men and 30 women; 61.17 ± 7.56 years) individuals regularly engaged in Tai Chi Chuan, tennis, or running, and a control group of 59 age-matched sedentary (27 men and 32 women) individuals. Anthropometric and bioelectrical measurements and hand grip strength of both sides were collected. Segmental body composition was analyzed through specific bioelectrical impedance vector analysis. The body composition of the right and left limbs was similar among active individuals (arms: T2 = 6.3, n.s.; legs: T2 = 5.0, n.s.), with a similar pattern in the three different disciplines. By contrast, the control group showed bilateral asymmetry (arms: T2 = 6.8, p < 0.001; legs: T2 = 8.8, p < 0.001), mainly because of the higher values of specific reactance (t = 2.4; p = 0.018) and phase angle (t = 2.0; p = 0.054) in the dominant arm, and the higher specific vector length (t = −3.0; p = 0.027) in the left leg. All of the groups showed a higher hand grip strength in the dominant arm (active: t = 7.0, p < 0.001; control: t = 2.9; p < 0.01). In conclusion, the active individuals showed stronger body composition symmetry than the controls, thus indicating a previously undetected positive effect of sport in middle-aged and older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Stagi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Neuroscience and Anthropology Section, University of Cagliari, Cittadella di Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (E.M.)
| | - Alessia Moroni
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Torino, 10123 Torino, Italy; (A.M.); (M.M.C.)
| | | | - Elisabetta Marini
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences, Neuroscience and Anthropology Section, University of Cagliari, Cittadella di Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
- Correspondence: (S.S.); (E.M.)
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22
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Padilla CJ, Harrigan ME, Harris H, Schwab JM, Rutkove SB, Rich MM, Clark BC, Arnold WD. Profiling age-related muscle weakness and wasting: neuromuscular junction transmission as a driver of age-related physical decline. GeroScience 2021; 43:1265-1281. [PMID: 33895959 PMCID: PMC8190265 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-021-00369-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathological age-related loss of skeletal muscle strength and mass contribute to impaired physical function in older adults. Factors that promote the development of these conditions remain incompletely understood, impeding development of effective and specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Inconclusive evidence across species suggests disruption of action potential signal transmission at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), the crucial connection between the nervous and muscular systems, as a possible contributor to age-related muscle dysfunction. Here we investigated age-related loss of NMJ function using clinically relevant, electrophysiological measures (single-fiber electromyography (SFEMG) and repetitive nerve stimulation (RNS)) in aged (26 months) versus young (6 months) F344 rats. Measures of muscle function (e.g., grip strength, peak plantarflexion contractility torque) and mass were assessed for correlations with physiological measures (e.g., indices of NMJ transmission). Other outcomes also included plantarflexion muscle contractility tetanic torque fade during 1-s trains of stimulation as well as gastrocnemius motor unit size and number. Profiling NMJ function in aged rats identified significant declines in NMJ transmission stability and reliability. Further, NMJ deficits were tightly correlated with hindlimb grip strength, gastrocnemius muscle weight, loss of peak contractility torque, degree of tetanic fade, and motor unit loss. Thus, these findings provide direct evidence for NMJ dysfunction as a potential mechanism of age-related muscle dysfunction pathogenesis and severity. These findings also suggest that NMJ transmission modulation may serve as a target for therapeutic development for age-related loss of physical function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos J Padilla
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1060 Carmack Road, Room 207, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Markus E Harrigan
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1060 Carmack Road, Room 207, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Hallie Harris
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1060 Carmack Road, Room 207, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Jan M Schwab
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1060 Carmack Road, Room 207, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
- Belford Center for Spinal Cord Injury, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- The Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Seward B Rutkove
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark M Rich
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology and Physiology, Wright State University, Dayton, OH, 45435, USA
| | - Brian C Clark
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ohio Musculoskeletal and Neurological Institute, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
| | - W David Arnold
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, 1060 Carmack Road, Room 207, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA.
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
- The Neurological Institute, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
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23
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Walker S. Evidence of resistance training-induced neural adaptation in older adults. Exp Gerontol 2021; 151:111408. [PMID: 34022275 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2021.111408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The deleterious effects of aging on force production are observable from the age of 40 upwards, depending on the measure. Neural mechanisms contributing to maximum force production and rate of force development have been suggested as descending drive from supraspinal centers, spinal motoneuron excitability, and corticospinal inhibition of descending drive; all of which influence motor unit recruitment and/or firing rate. Resistance-trained Master athletes offer a good source of information regarding the inevitable effects of aging despite the countermeasure of systematic resistance-training. However, most evidence of neural adaptation is derived from longitudinal intervention studies in previously untrained (i.e. resistance-training naïve) older adults. There is good evidence for the effect of resistance-training on the end-point of neural activation, i.e. motor unit behavior, but little to no data on the generation of descending drive from e.g. transcranial magnetic stimulation or cortical imaging studies in older adults. This, along with tracking master athletes over several years, would provide valuable information and could be the focus of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Walker
- NeuroMuscular Research Center, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Finland.
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24
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Ganse B, Degens H. Current Insights in the Age-related Decline in Sports Performance of the Older Athlete. Int J Sports Med 2021; 42:879-888. [PMID: 34000751 DOI: 10.1055/a-1480-7730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The higher performance level of master athletes compared to non-athletes is often associated with better health throughout life. However, even the physical performance of master athletes declines with age, and this decline accelerates from about the age of 70 years onwards. A progressive loss of muscle mass, declines in force- and power-generating capacity, decreased flexibility, and the concomitant decline in specific tension characterize the muscular changes underlying performance declines. In the cardiovascular system, declines in stroke volume and cardiac output, and cardiac and vascular stiffness contribute to decreasing performance. Recent studies have shown that long-term endurance exercise in master athletes does not only have positive effects, but is associated with an increased incidence of atrial fibrillation, atherosclerotic plaques, and aortic dilation, and even more so in men than in women. Recently, larger longitudinal datasets were analysed and showed that the age-related decline in performance was similar in longitudinal and cross-sectional data. In conclusion, regular physical activity enhances the exercise capacity, and hence quality of life in old age, but it is not without risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bergita Ganse
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.,Innovative Implant Development, Clinics and Institutes of Surgery, Universität des Saarlandes, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans Degens
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.,Institute of Sport Science and Innovations, Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania
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25
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Varesco G, Hunter SK, Rozand V. Physical activity and aging research: opportunities abound. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2021; 46:1004-1006. [PMID: 33951404 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2020-1062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aging is associated with large between-subjects variability in motor function among older adults, which can compromise identifying the mechanisms for age-related reductions in motor performance. This variability is in part explained by differences among older adults in habitual physical activity. Quantifying and accounting for physical activity levels of the participants in aging studies will help differentiate those changes in motor function associated with biological aging rather than those induced by inactivity. Novelty: Quantification of physical activity levels in studies with older participants will help differentiate the effects of aging rather than physical inactivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Varesco
- Laboratoire Interuniversitaire de Biologie de la Motricité, Université de Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, EA 7424, Saint-Etienne F-42023, France
| | - S K Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - V Rozand
- Laboratoire Interuniversitaire de Biologie de la Motricité, Université de Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, EA 7424, Saint-Etienne F-42023, France
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26
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Herbert P, Hayes LD, Beaumont AJ, Grace FM, Sculthorpe NF. Six weeks of high intensity interval training (HIIT) facilitates a four year preservation of aerobic capacity in sedentary older males: A reunion study. Exp Gerontol 2021; 150:111373. [PMID: 33895265 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2021.111373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Long-term implications of acutely increased cardiorespiratory fitness following short-term exercise interventions in older adults are unknown. In this study, we examined peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) after 4-years of 'free-living' after a high intensity interval training (HIIT) intervention. Seventeen lifelong exercisers (LEX) and 17 previously sedentary (SED) males (55-74 years of age in 2012) were tested four years (phase D) after our previous experiment which included 6-weeks of aerobic moderate intensity exercise (phase B), followed by 6-weeks of HIIT (phase C). At all stages, a standard incremental exercise protocol on a cycle ergometer was completed to determine VO2peak. SED (P = 1.000, Cohen's d = 0.01) and LEX (P = 1.000, Cohen's d = 0.11) VO2peak at phase D was not different from phase A (enrolment). SED experienced a large decrease in VO2peak from phase C to phase D (32 ± 6 ml·kg·min-1 to 27 ± 6 ml·kg·min-1 [P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.81]). LEX experienced a small decrease in VO2peak from phase C to phase D (42 ± 7 ml·kg·min-1 to 39 ± 9 ml·kg·min-1 [P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.46]). At phase D, LEX had greater VO2peak than SED (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.73). The proportion of subjects who reported discontinuing training, maintaining moderate training, and maintaining HIIT differed between groups (P = 0.023), with LEX self-reporting more HIIT, and SED self-reporting more discontinuation from exercise. Those who continued exercising experienced a reduction in VO2peak over the four years from 39 ± 7 ml·kg·min-1 to 36 ± 9 ml·kg·min-1 (N = 25, P < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.37), and those who discontinued exercising also experienced a reduction in VO2peak from 30 ± 7 ml·kg·min-1 to 25 ± 9 ml·kg·min-1 (N = 9, P = 0.003, Cohen's d = 0.62). Four years after completing a brief period of aerobic exercise and HIIT, older males demonstrated a preservation of VO2peak, irrespective of training status (LEX or SED). However, LEX exhibited greater VO2peak than SED after 4-years of unsupervised 'free-living'. Notably, participants who discontinued exercising experienced a greater reduction in VO2peak. These data suggest that a 6 weeks of supervised HIIT can facilitate the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Herbert
- School of Sport, Health and Outdoor Education, Trinity Saint David, University of Wales, UK
| | - Lawrence D Hayes
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, UK.
| | | | - Fergal M Grace
- Faculty of Health, Federation University, Victoria, Australia
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27
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McKendry J, Joanisse S, Baig S, Liu B, Parise G, Greig CA, Breen L. Superior Aerobic Capacity and Indices of Skeletal Muscle Morphology in Chronically Trained Master Endurance Athletes Compared With Untrained Older Adults. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 2021; 75:1079-1088. [PMID: 31155637 DOI: 10.1093/gerona/glz142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aim was to comprehensively assess physiological function and muscle morphology in chronically trained older individuals against untrained young and older individuals. In a cross-sectional design, 15 young untrained controls (YC) (20 ± 2.7 years, 78.9 ± 13.3 kg), 12 untrained older controls (OC) (69.8 ± 4.1 years, 77.5 ± 14.2 kg), and 14 endurance-trained master athletes (MA) (67.1 ± 4.1 years, 68.7 ± 6.5 kg) underwent assessments of body composition, aerobic capacity, strength, muscle architecture, and fiber-type morphology. Skeletal muscle index was lower and body fat greater in OC versus MA. Estimated VO2max (mL·kg-1·minute-1) was similar between MA and YC, but lower in OC. Isometric leg strength normalized to fat-free mass was similar between groups, whereas normalized isometric arm strength was greater in YC than MA. Myosin heavy chain (MHC) I fiber area was greater in MA than OC, while MHC II fiber area was greater in YC than OC. MHC II fiber myonuclear domain size was greater in YC than OC and MA, whereas MA had greater MHC I and MHC II fiber capillarization than OC and YC. Satellite cell content was similar between groups. Chronic endurance training enhances indices of muscle morphology and improves body composition and aerobic capacity in older age, with potentially important implications for healthspan extension.
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Affiliation(s)
- James McKendry
- School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sophie Joanisse
- School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shanat Baig
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Boyang Liu
- University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Gianni Parise
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Carolyn A Greig
- School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Ontario, Canada.,NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham.,MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, University of Birmingham
| | - Leigh Breen
- School of Sport, Exercise & Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Ontario, Canada.,NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham.,MRC-Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, University of Birmingham
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28
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Felicetti G, Thoumie P, Do MC, Schieppati M. Cutaneous and muscular afferents from the foot and sensory fusion processing: Physiology and pathology in neuropathies. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2021; 26:17-34. [PMID: 33426723 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The foot-sole cutaneous receptors (section 2), their function in stance control (sway minimisation, exploratory role) (2.1), and the modulation of their effects by gait pattern and intended behaviour (2.2) are reviewed. Experimental manipulations (anaesthesia, temperature) (2.3 and 2.4) have shown that information from foot sole has widespread influence on balance. Foot-sole stimulation (2.5) appears to be a promising approach for rehabilitation. Proprioceptive information (3) has a pre-eminent role in balance and gait. Reflex responses to balance perturbations are produced by both leg and foot muscle stretch (3.1) and show complex interactions with skin input at both spinal and supra-spinal levels (3.2), where sensory feedback is modulated by posture, locomotion and vision. Other muscles, notably of neck and trunk, contribute to kinaesthesia and sense of orientation in space (3.3). The effects of age-related decline of afferent input are variable under different foot-contact and visual conditions (3.4). Muscle force diminishes with age and sarcopenia, affecting intrinsic foot muscles relaying relevant feedback (3.5). In neuropathy (4), reduction in cutaneous sensation accompanies the diminished density of viable receptors (4.1). Loss of foot-sole input goes along with large-fibre dysfunction in intrinsic foot muscles. Diabetic patients have an elevated risk of falling, and vision and vestibular compensation strategies may be inadequate (4.2). From Charcot-Marie-Tooth 1A disease (4.3) we have become aware of the role of spindle group II fibres and of the anatomical feet conditions in balance control. Lastly (5) we touch on the effects of nerve stimulation onto cortical and spinal excitability, which may participate in plasticity processes, and on exercise interventions to reduce the impact of neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Felicetti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Unit of Neuromotor Rehabilitation, Institute of Montescano, Pavia, Italy
| | - Philippe Thoumie
- Service de rééducation neuro-orthopédique, Hôpital Rothschild APHP, Université Sorbonne, Paris, France.,Agathe Lab ERL Inserm U-1150, Paris, France
| | - Manh-Cuong Do
- Université Paris-Saclay, CIAMS, Orsay, France.,Université d'Orléans, CIAMS, Orléans, France
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29
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Why Are Masters Sprinters Slower Than Their Younger Counterparts? Physiological, Biomechanical, and Motor Control Related Implications for Training Program Design. J Aging Phys Act 2021; 29:708-719. [PMID: 33450731 DOI: 10.1123/japa.2020-0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Elite sprint performances typically peak during an athlete's 20s and decline thereafter with age. The mechanisms underpinning this sprint performance decline are often reported to be strength-based in nature with reductions in strength capacities driving increases in ground contact time and decreases in stride lengths and frequency. However, an as-of-yet underexplored aspect of Masters sprint performance is that of age-related degradation in neuromuscular infrastructure, which manifests as a decline in both strength and movement coordination. Here, the authors explore reductions in sprint performance in Masters athletes in a holistic fashion, blending discussion of strength and power changes with neuromuscular alterations along with mechanical and technical age-related alterations. In doing so, the authors provide recommendations to Masters sprinters-and the aging population, in general-as to how best to support sprint ability and general function with age, identifying nutritional interventions that support performance and function and suggesting useful programming strategies and injury-reduction techniques.
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30
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Piasecki J, Inns TB, Bass JJ, Scott R, Stashuk DW, Phillips BE, Atherton PJ, Piasecki M. Influence of sex on the age-related adaptations of neuromuscular function and motor unit properties in elite masters athletes. J Physiol 2021; 599:193-205. [PMID: 33006148 DOI: 10.1113/jp280679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Masters athletes maintain high levels of activity into older age and allow an examination of the effects of aging dissociated from the effects of increased sedentary behaviour. Evidence suggests masters athletes are more successful at motor unit remodelling, the reinnervation of denervated fibres acting to preserve muscle fibre number, but little data are available in females. Here we used intramuscular electromyography to demonstrate that motor units sampled from the tibialis anterior show indications of remodelling from middle into older age and which does not differ between males and females. The age-related trajectory of motor unit discharge characteristic differs according to sex, with female athletes progressing to a slower firing pattern that was not observed in males. Our findings indicate motor unit remodelling from middle to older age occurs to a similar extent in male and female athletes, with discharge rates progressively slowing in females only. ABSTRACT Motor unit (MU) remodelling acts to minimise loss of muscle fibres following denervation in older age, which may be more successful in masters athletes. Evidence suggests performance and neuromuscular function decline with age in this population, although the majority of studies have focused on males, with little available data on female athletes. Functional assessments of strength, balance and motor control were performed in 30 masters athletes (16 male) aged 44-83 years. Intramuscular needle electrodes were used to sample individual motor unit potentials (MUPs) and near-fibre MUPs in the tibialis anterior (TA) during isometric contractions at 25% maximum voluntary contraction, and used to determine discharge characteristics (firing rate, variability) and biomarkers of peripheral MU remodelling (MUP size, complexity, stability). Multilevel mixed-effects linear regression models examined effects of age and sex. All aspects of neuromuscular function deteriorated with age (P < 0.05) with no age × sex interactions, although males were stronger (P < 0.001). Indicators of MU remodelling also progressively increased with age to a similar extent in both sexes (P < 0.05), whilst MU firing rate progressively decreased with age in females (p = 0.029), with a non-significant increase in males (p = 0.092). Masters athletes exhibit age-related declines in neuromuscular function that are largely equal across males and females. Notably, they also display features of MU remodelling with advancing age, probably acting to reduce muscle fibre loss. The age trajectory of MU firing rate assessed at a single contraction level differed between sexes, which may reflect a greater tendency for females to develop a slower muscle phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Thomas B Inns
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Joseph J Bass
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Reece Scott
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel W Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Chen C, Ma S, Sheng X, Farina D, Zhu X. Adaptive Real-Time Identification of Motor Unit Discharges From Non-Stationary High-Density Surface Electromyographic Signals. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2020; 67:3501-3509. [DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2020.2989311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Messa GAM, Piasecki M, Rittweger J, McPhee JS, Koltai E, Radak Z, Simunic B, Heinonen A, Suominen H, Korhonen MT, Degens H. Absence of an aging‐related increase in fiber type grouping in athletes and non‐athletes. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2020; 30:2057-2069. [DOI: 10.1111/sms.13778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Guy A. M. Messa
- Department of Life Sciences Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- MRC‐Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre University of Nottingham Nottingham UK
| | - Jörn Rittweger
- Division Space Physiology Institute of Aerospace Medicine German Aerospace Center Cologne Germany
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine University of Cologne Cologne Germany
| | - Jamie S. McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester UK
| | - Erika Koltai
- Research Institute of Sport Science University of Physical Education Budapest Hungary
| | - Zsolt Radak
- Research Institute of Sport Science University of Physical Education Budapest Hungary
| | - Bostjan Simunic
- Science and Research Centre Koper Institute for Kinesiology Research Koper Sloveni
| | - Ari Heinonen
- Gerontology Research Centre Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences University of Jyväskylä Jyväskylä Finland
| | - Harri Suominen
- Gerontology Research Centre Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences University of Jyväskylä Jyväskylä Finland
| | - Marko T. Korhonen
- Gerontology Research Centre Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences University of Jyväskylä Jyväskylä Finland
| | - Hans Degens
- Department of Life Sciences Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester UK
- Institute of Sport Science and Innovations Lithuanian Sports University Kaunas Lithuania
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Targu Mures Targu Mures Rumania
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Crossland H, Piasecki J, McCormick D, Phillips BE, Wilkinson DJ, Smith K, McPhee JS, Piasecki M, Atherton PJ. Targeted genotype analyses of GWAS-derived lean body mass and handgrip strength-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms in elite master athletes. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 319:R184-R194. [PMID: 32579386 PMCID: PMC7473897 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00110.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Recent large genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have independently identified a set of genetic loci associated with lean body mass (LBM) and handgrip strength (HGS). Evaluation of these candidate single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may be useful to investigate genetic traits of populations at higher or lower risk of muscle dysfunction. As such, we investigated associations between six SNPs linked to LBM or HGS in a population of elite master athletes (MA) and age-matched controls as a representative population of older individuals with variable maintenance of muscle mass and function. Genomic DNA was isolated from buffy coat samples of 96 individuals [consisting of 48 MA (71 ± 6 yr, age-graded performance 83 ± 9%) and 48 older controls (75 ± 6 yr)]. SNP validation and sample genotyping were conducted using the tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system (ARMS). For the three SNPs analyzed that were previously associated with LBM (FTO, IRS1, and ADAMTSL3), multinomial logistic regression revealed a significant association of the ADAMTSL3 genotype with %LBM (P < 0.01). For the three HGS-linked SNPs, neither GBF1 nor GLIS1 showed any association with HGS, but for TGFA, multinomial logistic regression revealed a significant association of genotype with HGS (P < 0.05). For ADAMTSL3, there was an enrichment of the effect allele in the MA (P < 0.05, Fisher's exact test). Collectively, of the six SNPs analyzed, ADAMTSL3 and TGFA showed significant associations with LBM and HGS, respectively. The functional relevance of the ADAMTSL3 SNP in body composition and of TGFA in strength may highlight a genetic component of the elite MA phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Crossland
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel McCormick
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J Wilkinson
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kenneth Smith
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie S McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Medical Research Council Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and National Institute of Health Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Royal Derby Hospital Centre, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Swiecicka A, Piasecki M, Stashuk D, Jones D, Wu F, McPhee JS, Rutter MK. Relationship of Anabolic Hormones With Motor Unit Characteristics in Quadriceps Muscle in Healthy and Frail Aging Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5781153. [PMID: 32133493 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Anabolic hormones are important factors in maintaining muscle mass for aging men, but their role in overall motor unit structure and function is unclear. OBJECTIVE The objective of this work is to determine associations of anabolic and reproductive hormone levels with motor unit characteristics in quadriceps muscle in older healthy and frail men. DESIGN This work is an observational cohort study of community-dwelling men. PARTICIPANTS Participants included healthy and frail men younger than 65 years. INTERVENTION No intervention was performed. OUTCOME MEASURE Quantitative assessments of electromyography-derived motor unit potential size (MUP) and compound muscle action potential size (CMAP) of the vastus lateralis muscle. RESULTS We studied 98 men (mean ± SD: age 73 ± 6 years; body mass index [BMI] 25.7 ± 4.0 kg/m2; diabetes 11%) of whom 45% were prefrail and 18% frail. After adjusting for age, BMI, and prevalent diabetes, higher total and free testosterone levels were significantly related to larger CMAP (total testosterone: β [95% CI]: 0.3 [0.08-0.53]; free testosterone: 0.34 [0.13-0.56]). Exploratory analysis showed the relationship between free testosterone and CMAP was stronger in frail rather than robust men. In univariate analyses, estradiol was associated with CMAP size (0.37 [0.16-0.57]); and vitamin D was associated with MUP size (0.22 [0.01-0.43]) but these relationships were no longer significant after adjusting for potential confounders. CONCLUSION Our data highlight the associations between androgen levels and the electrophysiological characteristics of older men, particularly in the frail. Clinical trials involving administration of androgens will help to elucidate the potential benefits of intervention on neuromuscular function and/or frailty status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Swiecicka
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, and National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - David Jones
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Frederick Wu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jamie S McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Martin K Rutter
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Diabetes Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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Amorim S, Degens H, Passos Gaspar A, De Matos LDNJ. The Effects of Resistance Exercise With Blood Flow Restriction on Flow-Mediated Dilation and Arterial Stiffness in Elderly People With Low Gait Speed: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2019; 8:e14691. [PMID: 31682588 PMCID: PMC6858612 DOI: 10.2196/14691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During aging, a significant loss of muscle mass, strength, and power is associated with a decline in daily functional capacities. Traditionally, resistance training is prescribed to prevent or reverse the skeletal muscle weakness, but the required training intensity may be too demanding for older people with poor physical performance. Resistance exercise with blood flow moderation (KAATSU training), originally developed in Japan, combines resistance exercise with blood flow restriction. It has been reported that KAATSU training enhances muscle hypertrophy in many populations. However, few studies have evaluated the effects of resistance exercises with blood flow restriction in elderly people and how this affects vascular structure and function. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate (1) the acute and chronic effects of resistance exercise with blood flow restriction on vascular health in elderly people with low gait speed and (2) whether low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction elicits similar strength and gait speed gains to those elicited by conventional resistance training without blood flow restriction. Methods This is an ongoing randomized controlled trial in elderly people with low gait speed. Overall, two study arms of 13 participants each perform resistance exercise with and without blood flow restriction. The 2 groups are as follows: the control group will perform conventional resistance exercise (60% of 1 repetition maximum) and the KAATSU group will perform the low-load resistance exercise with blood flow restriction (20% of 1 repetition maximum) for 12 weeks. Pulse wave velocity, venous occlusion plethysmography, and flow-mediated dilation are used to assess arterial stiffness, muscle blood flow, and endothelial function, respectively. The secondary outcomes are gait speed, strength, and quality of life. All measures will be performed before and after the training program. Results This research study is in progress. Recruitment has started, and data collection is expected to finish in August 2020. Conclusions The findings of this study will have important implications for the rehabilitation of elderly people. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03272737; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03272737 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/14691
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Amorim
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hans Degens
- Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Lithuanian Sports University, Kaunas, Lithuania.,University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science and Technology of Targu Mures, Targu Mures, Romania
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Piasecki J, Ireland A, Piasecki M, Deere K, Hannam K, Tobias J, McPhee JS. Comparison of Muscle Function, Bone Mineral Density and Body Composition of Early Starting and Later Starting Older Masters Athletes. Front Physiol 2019; 10:1050. [PMID: 31507432 PMCID: PMC6719569 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Masters endurance runners can epitomize healthy aging; being reflective of the physiological processes of aging without the compounded effects of inactivity. The primary aim of the present study was to determine, using cross-sectional data, whether individuals taking up training after the age of 50 years can achieve the same level of athletic performance and musculoskeletal characteristics in their older age as those who trained all of their adult lives. A total of 150 master endurance runners [age 68 (5) years; 111 male, 39 female] were divided into early starters (training all of their adulthood) and late starters (started training after age 50 years). A comparative non-athletic group of 59 healthy older adults [age 73 (4) years; 30 female, 29 male] were additionally included for analysis. Training intensity, age-graded performance (AGP) and musculoskeletal assessments were performed. Results showed that there was no difference between athlete groups for training intensity or age-graded performance, despite the 30-year difference in training history. Body fat percentage and leg lean mass did not differ between athlete groups, but were 17% lower and 12% greater, respectively, in athlete groups compared with controls. Power normalized to body mass did not differ between any groups. Spine BMD was lower in late starters than controls, while early starters did not differ from late starters or controls. Hip BMD did not differ between any of the groups. These findings show that the Masters athletes we studied that started intense endurance running after the age of 50 years had lower body fat and higher leg lean mass compared to non-athletes. Body composition and athletic performance of the late starters was very similar to those who trained all of their adult lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Piasecki
- Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Ireland
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-ARUK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Deere
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Kimberley Hannam
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Tobias
- Musculoskeletal Research Unit, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Jamie S McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Department of Physiology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Swiecicka A, Piasecki M, Stashuk DW, Ireland A, Jones DA, Rutter MK, McPhee JS. Frailty phenotype and frailty index are associated with distinct neuromuscular electrophysiological characteristics in men. Exp Physiol 2019; 104:1154-1161. [PMID: 31054265 DOI: 10.1113/ep087579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Human frailty is characterized by accumulated health complaints, including medical conditions, low physical and psychological function and social components. It is currently unknown whether the condition is associated with neuromuscular changes detectable by electrophysiology obtained from voluntary and involuntary muscle contractions. What is the main finding and its importance? A higher likelihood of frailty was significantly associated with a smaller size of vastus lateralis motor unit potentials during voluntary contractions and smaller compound muscle action potentials generated by electrical stimulation. Importantly, these associations were independent of age and body mass index. ABSTRACT The purpose of this study was to determine whether neuromuscular electrophysiological characteristics that are known to underlie sarcopenia are also associated with the more complex frailty syndrome. Eighty-six men [mean (SD) age, 74 (8) years] were classed as non-frail (robust), prefrail or frail using criteria from the frailty phenotype (FP) and the frailty index (FI). The femoral nerve was stimulated maximally and the resulting compound muscle action potential amplitude (CMAP) measured over the vastus lateralis. Motor unit potential (MUP) size was assessed during voluntary contractions using intramuscular electromyography (iEMG). Logistic and negative binomial regression models determined relationships between FP and FI with CMAP and MUP sizes before and after adjustments for age and body mass index. Larger CMAP size was associated with a lower likelihood of frailty in fully adjusted models: a 1SD higher level in vastus lateralis CMAP size was associated with a 0.4 (95% confidence interval: 0.2, 0.6; P < 0.01) unit lower FI (40% of the FI range) and more than halving of the odds [odds ratio: 0.43 (95% confidence interval: 0.21, 0.90)] of having a frail/prefrail phenotype. Greater MUP size was also related to lower FI values using unadjusted and fully adjusted models. However, MUP size was not significantly related to FP in any model. Smaller MUPs and a smaller CMAP were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of frailty, independent of age and body mass index. These results relate neuromuscular electrophysiological characteristics to the complex frailty syndrome and identify motor unit remodelling as a possible contributing factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Swiecicka
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Clinical, Metabolic and Molecular Physiology, MRC-ARUK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel W Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex Ireland
- School of Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - David A Jones
- School of Healthcare Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Martin K Rutter
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Diabetes Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Jamie S McPhee
- Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
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